Sandra‘s Closet

I am obsessed with this exclusive collaboration between Aveda, the purpose-driven pioneer of plant-powered, high-performance hair care, and fashion designer Joseph Altuzarra. The beautiful Holiday 2024 collection features limited-edition hair accessories and gift packaging, available globally in Aveda stores, partner salons, specialty retailers and aveda.com.

ABOUT JOSEPH ALTUZARRA

«There is a strong connection of brand values and creative process between Aveda and Altuzarra, especially around the intersection of nature and beauty. This has harmoniously carried over to our special holiday collection – the products and packaging are so thoughtful and feel so handcrafted.»- Joseph Altuzarra

Founded by creative director Joseph Altuzarra in 2008, Altuzarra is a luxury women’s ready-to-wear and accessories brand. Joseph’s seductive aesthetic combines modernity, femininity, and an unapologetic sexiness. Anchored in artisanal craftsmanship, and a curiosity about the world, the collection is informed by Joseph’s own multicultural background and upbringing. The Altuzarra brand speaks to the power, fearlessness and sensuality of the modern woman’s wardrobe.

Altuzarra S/S 2025

TO SHOP ALTUZARRA, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

For the limited-edition capsule, designer Joseph Altuzarra reinterpreted the watercolors of a 19th-century artist, creating botanical motifs that conjure the elegance and symmetry of nature and the human form.

«Each design serves as a reminder of our inherent connection to the earth,» explains Altuzarra, «I can’t wait to use this and feel like I’m starting the year by taking care of myself’ — that’s the feeling I wanted to convey with the collection.»

nightbloom Cosmetics bag

«What’s special about the design of this bag is that the construction and print placement allow it to double as both a makeup bag and a fashionable accessory for all your holiday parties.»

nightbloom Twist Headband

«When designing this piece, I wanted to create something that served as a wonderful self-care product and could also be elevated enough to pair with a beautiful black dress or holiday party look as a festive accessory.»

Invigorating Hair & Body Essentials Gift Set
Invigorating shower routine for hair and body that features one of our best-selling aromas: rosemary mint.

Strengthening Essentials Gift Set
Bond-building botanical repair™ wash day essentials, for all hair types and textures with damage.

Scalp Care Essentials Gift Set
A regimen that treats key scalp concerns and fights signs of premature scalp aging with skin care-inspired scalp solutions.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Aveda
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CLÉ DE PEAU BEAUTÉ‘s limited-edition City of Dreamlight collection make the perfect holiday gifts inspired by the magic of Paris. The packaging, designed by Mr. Dalin, is so beautiful and adds magic to the display on your bathroom shelf.

A TALE OF ARTISTRY UNVEILED
At the outset of his medical school studies, Mr. Dalin discovered his true passion for illustration. Opting to leave medical school, he pursued a comprehensive path, including a preparatory course, a diploma in narrative drawing, engraving courses and studies in plastic arts. He also founded the association, Un Fanzine par Mois, which publishes and distributes micro-published books.

Mr. Dalin’s artistic style in boldly modern, unconventional, and distinctly contemporary. His confident strokes bring forth dense compositions with intricate details, showcasing his expertise in architectural mastery that unfolds in graphic landscapes, playing with a juxtapositionof intimate and grandiloquent spaces.

Influenced by the ligne claire movement, Mr. Dalin draws inspiration from luminaries such as Winsor McCay, Schuiten, Moebius, and Pierre Clement, crafting his own unique universe.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Clé de Peau Beauté
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Following an invitation by Valentino to an enchanting and mysterious evening, where the dress code said: «Dark as Le Noir», reminiscent of the Maison’s F/W 2024 collection, I showed up in this monochromatic black outfit with gold jewelry pieces.

My look: Shift dress with plissé detailing, VSLING mini top handle handbag in black with sparkling embroidery, Tan-Go 155 patent-leather platform sandals, VLogo chain necklace, matching VLogo chain bracelet, V-Logo crystal-embellished hoop earrings, crystal logo ring, and crystal-embellished cat-eye metal sunglasses, all by Valentino, glitter fishnet tights by Calzedonia, Mitza ring by Dior Fine Jewellery, and Tank Américaine in yellow gold with diamonds by Cartier.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Posh Tees: Wit Meets Chic in Victoria Beckham’s Slogan Style

Victoria Beckham’s slogan T-shirts, as seen on her hit TV show, perfectly blend playful wit with high-fashion edge. These effortlessly chic pieces showcase her signature minimalist style while adding a pop of personality, making them a must-have for trendsetters who love making a bold yet casual statement.

To shop them, click on the highlighted product descriptions. Personally speaking, I think they make a great gift for a fellow fashionista.

LoL, Sandra

MY DAD HAD A ROLLS-ROYCE

DAVID’S WIFE

I LIKE YOU BUT I LIKE ME MORE

INOFFENSIVELY EXPENSIVE

FASHION OFFENDER

FASHION STOLE MY SMILE

I AM SMILING ON THE INSIDE

Photos: © Courtesy of Victoria Beckham / Mytheresa
DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored. We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

For 2025, the Pantone Color Institute selects PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, a warming, brown hue imbued with richness. It nurtures us with its suggestion of the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee, two of my favorites, that are answering the desire for comfort.

«We look to a mellow brown hue whose inherent richness and sensorial and comforting warmth extends further into our desire for comfort, and the indulgence of simple pleasures that we can gift and share with others.»
Laurie Pressman
Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute

Mocha Mousse on the S/S 2025 runways.

With its sophisticated, earthy elegance, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse can stand alone or serve as a versatile foundation, enhancing a wide range of palettes and applications – from minimalist to richly detailed designs – across all colour-focused industries. It is a very versatile shade infused with inherent sophistication that stands for quiet luxury.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Courtesy of the Brands / © Sandra Bauknecht
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Elevate your wardrobe and redeem your style with timeless pieces that exude sophistication. Fashion is your chance to reclaim confidence and redefine elegance—one outfit at a time.

My look: Bradford reversible car coat, knight hardware taffeta shorts, and Knight bag in green shearling and leather, all by Burberry, Lisa square-frame metal sunglasses by Saint Laurent, earrings with pearls by Alessandra Rich, and studded Tan-Go platform pumps by Valentino.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Felicia Sewerinsson @feliciasewerinsson
DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored. We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

What a whirlwind of events! While filming in Istanbul with little time to spare, the fashion world delivered a major surprise: John Galliano announced his departure from Maison Margiela after a decade at the helm of the OTB-owned brand.

John Galliano

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Galliano shared the news, writing, «Today is the day I say goodbye to Maison Margiela… I am forever grateful for this safe space to create and build a new family that supports me with courage and dignity.» He extended his thanks to his atelier team and Renzo Rosso, OTB’s chairman.

The move marks the end of an era for the house, originally established by the famously reclusive Martin Margiela. The brand gave Galliano the opportunity to rebuild his career and reputation following his controversial exit from Dior in 2011. Over the years, Galliano transformed Margiela with his signature theatricality, camp-infused creations, and innovative, deconstructed designs. He also championed gender-fluid fashion and elevated the brand’s «Artisanal» line to unprecedented levels of craftsmanship.

Me in the Maison Margiela Haute Couture studio after the amazing show in the beginning of the year, which is just next to Galliano’s office.

Under his leadership, Margiela saw significant commercial success, with a 22% rise in sales in 2023, even as the broader luxury market faced challenges. His legacy was solidified with a sensational January 2024 show in Paris, where historical couture-inspired characters roamed a haunting, mist-filled space under a bridge, complete with striking, mask-like makeup by Pat McGrath. Galliano leaves behind a storied chapter in Margiela’s history.

Galliano did not elaborate on his future plans, instead saying that «when the time is right, all will be revealed.»

Matthieu Blazy for CHANEL

I was hoping that he would be appointed at CHANEL but today the French Maison announced Matthieu Blazy as its new creative director, succeeding Virginie Viard, who departed in June. Blazy, formerly the creative head at Bottega Veneta, is recognized for his craftsmanship and innovative designs. His appointment is anticipated to infuse fresh energy into the French Maison’s iconic aesthetic. Blazy is expected to present his inaugural collection for CHANEL during Paris Fashion Week in October 2025. 

Louise Trotter for Bottega Veneta

Meanwhile in the past hours, Louise Trotter has been announced as the new creative director of Bottega Veneta, taking over from Matthieu Blazy. Known for her transformative work at brands like Lacoste and Carven, Trotter brings a refined design aesthetic and a strong sense of cultural awareness to the role. She is set to start at the luxury house in January 2025, making her the only woman currently leading a brand under Kering’s ownership. This appointment highlights her unique vision and the potential for a fresh chapter at Bottega Veneta.

One of the conglomerate’s biggest fashion brands, Fendi, has yet to name a new womenswear designer after Kim Jones stepped down from the role in October. I guess that Galliano will head up there. These significant shifts reflect the dynamic nature of the fashion industry, with Galliano, Blazy and Trotter poised to shape new creative directions in their respective roles.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands / © Sandra Bauknecht
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Every year, the Claridge’s Hotel in London invites a designer to collaborate on the decoration of their iconic Christmas tree. Last year, it was Louis Vuitton, this year it is no other than Sir Paul Smith, who revealed a traditional 20ft Christmas tree sitting in a Signature Striped barrel and decorated with Paul Smith colourful baubles, ribbon and over 100 bespoke birdhouses.

Sir Paul has collaborated with two friends of the house on the decorations, British artist Nik Ramage, who has made a series of mechanical birdhouses, all with a playful Paul Smith twist, with roofs decorated in playing cards, postage stamps and dice. In Paul’s office, a miniature cable cart hovers overhead and Ramage took inspiration from this and engineered a flying bird to frame Claridge’s reception. Design studio Studiomama, have created a series of their whimsical ‘Off Cut Creatures’ to sit around the base of the tree.

Adding to the festive design, Paul Smith’s holiday Merrymaker fragrance will scent the lobby, and a chorus of birdsong is projected from the tree throughout the day to welcome guests into the lobby of the hotel. Sir Paul has even transformed the hotel lobby into his living room, with a geometric Paul Smith stripe Rug Company Rug, reupholstered Maharam by Paul Smith fabric pieces surround the fireplace to offer guests a warming retreat during the winter months.

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without an element of festive fun and adding to the playfulness, Sir Paul has revealed ‘Paul’s Pick n Mix’ trolley, which will be available for guests to enjoy.

«My wife Pauline and I have been staying and dining at Claridge’s for many years. We have spent so many special moments like Christmas and New Year at the hotel with our grandchildren and so it is often a family affair. It’s a great honour to be asked to create this year’s Christmas tree and it’s something I hope people will enjoy and find fascinating and fun. When designing this year’s tree, I automatically thought of a bird house, friendly and optimistic, a symbol of home which reflects the welcoming spirit of Claridge’s.»

Sir Paul Smith

I truly miss spending my time in London before Christmas, but due to my MY STYLE ROCKS project, I couldn’t find the time this year.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Claridge’s
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While filming MY STYLE ROCKS, we have of course in between a day off and then I love to binge-watch something captivating. Recently, I decided to go for the psychological thriller series DISCLAIMER on Apple TV+ with Cate Blanchett, Kevin Kline and Sacha Baron Cohen as the main characters.

The psychological thriller series is from acclaimed director Alfonso Cuarón, based on the novel of the same name by Renée Knight. DISCLAIMER centers around the character of Catherine Ravenscroft, played by Cate Blanchett, whose life is thrown into disarray when she stumbles upon a novel that appears to reveal hidden truths she had long kept concealed – even from herself. The narrative dives deeply into themes of memory, guilt, identity, and moral responsibility.

With Cate Blanchett at the helm, DISCALIMER is a masterclass in storytelling – tense, thought-provoking, and unapologetically gripping. This is not your casual binge-watch; it’s a psychological deep dive wrapped in mystery. Prepare for twists, moral dilemmas, and Blanchett’s signature brilliance. Watch carefully… and question everything.

The show’s costume design balances practicality with high-fashion elements, underlining Catherine’s complex emotional journey. It is wardrobe psychology at its best as her outfits enhance the narrative, connecting her professional life with personal turmoil through fashion.

Cate Blanchett’s portrayal of Catherine Ravenscroft in DISCLAIMER is marked by a wardrobe that reflects the character’s complexity, sophistication, and understated power. Her clothing choices likely lean toward:

• Neutral Tones: Think muted greys, whites, blacks, and beige to convey professionalism and control.
• Tailored Elegance: Sharp blazers, trench coats, and perfectly fitted trousers—classic pieces that emphasize her polished demeanor.
• Minimalist Chic: Simple yet expensive-looking outfits with clean lines, highlighting her character’s refined taste and confidence.
• Occasional Vulnerability: Softer, relaxed pieces (like a cashmere sweater or silk blouse) for scenes revealing more of her personal struggles or intimate moments.

This wardrobe aligns with her role as a journalist unraveling a tense mystery, where every outfit subtly reflects her emotional state and the unfolding drama.

Cate Blanchett with me.

This is a Cate Blanchett show, so expect excellence, layered performances, and moments that make you rethink life—or at least your wardrobe. If you’re here for mindless entertainment, you’re in the wrong place. But if you’re ready for brilliance with a side of intensity, buckle up and enjoy!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Apple TV +/ © Sandra Bauknecht
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Dries Van Noten announces a company insider, Julian Klausner, as the new creative director of his eponymous label, marking a significant transition after Van Noten’s 38-year career. Klausner, who has been with the brand since 2018 and served as the head of womenswear, will oversee its creative direction moving forward. Known for his deep understanding of the brand’s DNA, Klausner aims to honor its legacy while introducing fresh ideas to keep the label evolving.

Leaving behind a three-decade legacy of design that is celebrated worldwide, Van Noten announced he would be stepping back from his namesake label in March 2024. The Belgian-born designer, known for his innovative eye, revealed his decision in a letter, explaining that the decision has been on his mind for a while. Always bringing together an eclectic mix of textures, prints, and silhouettes, the creative director has consistently pushed the boundaries of conventional style, earning him a special place on the Paris Fashion Week schedule.

Dries Van Noten expressed confidence in Klausner’s vision, describing him as a natural choice to continue the brand’s innovative and artful approach. The 33-year-old Belgian designer will present his first women’s collection on 5 March in Paris.

TO SHOP DRIES VAN NOTEN, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

In Dries Van Noten this year in Boston, for the full outfit post click here please.

Photos: Courtesy of Dries Van Noten / Sarah Piantadosi, © Sandra Bauknecht
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